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Hydro Excavator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M5 Utilities

CDL Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation and vac/jetting equipment to perform non-destructive digging, pipeline jetting, and related field services for underground utilities while ...

M5 Utilities

CDL Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation and vac/jetting equipment to perform non-destructive digging, pipeline jetting, and related field services for underground utilities while ...

Sollers Construction LLC.

$62K - $80K/yr

Operate heavy equipment such as scrapers, trackhoes, motor graders, bulldozers, front end loaders, Backhoes, Skidsteers, Mini excavators, dump trucks, Hydro excavators * Excavate and prepare sites ...

New

M5 Utilities

CDL Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation and vac/jetting equipment to perform non-destructive digging, pipeline jetting, and related field services for underground utilities while ...

Diamond D Industries

Hydro Vac Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

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Hydro Excavator information

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How much do hydro excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro excavator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydro excavator?

A hydro excavator is a specialized operator who uses high-pressure water and a powerful vacuum system to safely and efficiently excavate soil or other materials. This non-destructive process, known as hydro excavation, is often used for digging around sensitive underground utilities, pipelines, or in areas where traditional excavation methods could cause damage. Hydro excavators are commonly employed in construction, utility maintenance, and environmental cleanup projects. Their work helps ensure precise excavation with minimal risk to existing infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydro excavator?

To thrive as a Hydro Excavator, you need experience with heavy equipment operation, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), and a basic understanding of utility line locations and excavation safety protocols. Familiarity with hydro excavation trucks, vacuum systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These qualifications and skills ensure safe, precise excavation work that avoids utility damage and maintains compliance with safety regulations.

What are some common safety challenges hydro excavators face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Hydro Excavators frequently work around underground utilities, heavy equipment, and in varying weather conditions, all of which introduce unique safety challenges. To mitigate risks, teams emphasize thorough site assessments, regular safety training, and strict adherence to operating procedures. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and real-time communication with crew members are mandatory to ensure everyone's well-being. Additionally, Hydro Excavators often collaborate closely with utility locators and site supervisors to prevent accidental damage and maintain a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Hydro Excavator vs Vacuum Excavator?

AspectHydro ExcavatorVacuum Excavator
Primary MethodUses high-pressure water to loosen soilUses suction to remove debris and soil
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility workConstruction, excavation, debris removal
CredentialsOperator certification, safety trainingOperator certification, safety training
Industry UsageUtility installation, potholingDebris removal, excavation

Hydro Excavator and Vacuum Excavator are often used together but serve different functions. Hydro Excavators use pressurized water to safely expose underground utilities, while Vacuum Excavators remove debris and loosened soil. Both require operator certification and are common in construction and utility industries, but their primary methods and applications differ.

More about Hydro Excavator jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydro Excavator jobs? Cities with the most Hydro Excavator job openings:
What states have the most Hydro Excavator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydro Excavator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Excavator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Excavator jobs are:
Hydro Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Excavator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Hydro Excavation Lead Driver (CDL Required)

IMPACT SIGNS INC

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Location: West Valley City, UT
Company: HydroHog
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: $28.00–$35.00 per hour (DOE)

Position Summary

Hydro Hog is seeking a motivated and experienced Excavation Lead Driver to join our growing team. This position is responsible for operating commercial vehicles and excavation equipment while leading field crews on excavation and hydro excavation projects. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, organized, and able to communicate effectively with customers, utility companies, municipalities, and team members.

This position requires someone who can work independently, lead by example, and ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company standards.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Safely operate commercial vehicles and excavation equipment.
  • Lead and supervise field crews on daily excavation projects.
  • Perform hydro excavation and utility locating support as assigned.
  • Transport equipment, materials, and water safely to and from job sites.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections and complete required DOT documentation.
  • Ensure all work is performed in compliance with OSHA, DOT, company safety policies, and applicable regulations.
  • Read utility locates, site plans, and work orders.
  • Coordinate with customers, contractors, municipalities, and utility companies.
  • Maintain accurate daily job reports and equipment inspections.
  • Ensure equipment is properly maintained and report maintenance concerns promptly.
  • Assist with excavation, cleanup, and other field duties as needed.
  • Promote a safe, productive, and professional work environment.
Required Qualifications
  • Valid Class B CDL.
  • Tanker Endorsement (Required).
  • Clean driving record and ability to meet company driving standards.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening and any other legally required screenings.
  • Ability to safely lift up to 75 pounds.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Willingness to work overtime, nights, or occasional weekends as project demands require.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous hydro excavation experience.
  • Excavation or underground utility construction experience.
  • Experience operating vacuum trucks, water trucks, mini excavators, skid steers, backhoes, or similar heavy equipment.
  • Knowledge of Blue Stakes/811 utility locating procedures.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification.
  • Current First Aid/CPR Certification.
  • Flagger Certification.
  • Experience reading construction plans and utility maps.
  • Basic mechanical knowledge for routine equipment inspections and maintenance.
  • Familiarity with DOT regulations, electronic driver logs (ELDs), and vehicle inspection requirements.
What We Offer
  • Competitive hourly pay of $28.00–$35.00 per hour, depending on experience.
  • Overtime opportunities.
  • Paid holidays and paid time off (if applicable).
  • Health, dental, and vision benefits (if applicable).
  • Retirement benefits (if applicable).
  • Opportunities for advancement and continued training.
  • A team-oriented environment focused on safety and quality.

HydroHog is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.